[Histonet] prevent wrinkles when cutting

[WILLIAM DESALVO]

If you process properly, no over dehydration, there is no reason to soak. Keeping block cool will help in cutting. Sharp, clean blade a must. Correct water bath temp and time are the most critical factors, after cutting, to produce a wrinkle free section. 

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> On Apr 20, 2015, at 10:12 AM, Julio Benavides <j.benavides <@t> eae.csic.es> wrote:
> 
> Hi there,
> 
> I´m curious about the soaking thing. We have never done it in our lab. Which is the purpose to do it?
> 
> Than, after facing the blocks, we chill them in a cold plate so, if wanting to do the soaking , when should we? I guess before placing them on the cold plate, but that may cause a bit of ice formation?
> 
> Thanks a lot for your help
> 
> Julio
> 
> 
>> On 20/04/2015 18:40, Grantham, Andrea L - (algranth) wrote:
>> Rachel,
>> First off, are you chilling and soaking the blocks after you face them?
>> Do that and see if there is a difference.
>> Don't try to get many sections to your ribbons. Shoot for a smaller ribbon (5-6) sections that are good. Cut slowly but consistently.
>> What microtome are you using? Are you using disposable blades and are they sharp? Don't expect them to cut well if you use the same blade to face the blocks. If you aren't using disposables, get some! They will make your life easier.
>> You might try to find a histotech at a local hospital lab who might be able to give you a hands-on lesson.
>> Don't despair! We all sat down at our microtomes those first times and suffered trying to get perfect sections. It takes practice. You might make some blank blocks or blocks with tissue you can spare to practice your cutting techniques. I used to do this with my students and it really helped them.
>> Good luck!
>> 
>> Andi G.
>> ________________________________________
>> From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] on behalf of Rachel M Gonzalez [rachel <@t> gbi-inc.com]
>> Sent: Monday, April 20, 2015 9:07 AM
>> To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
>> Subject: [Histonet] prevent wrinkles when cutting
>> 
>> Hi
>> 
>> Thursday was the first time I ever used a microtome.... I move to a lab
>> that does not have someone dedicated to cutting. I already miss her.
>> 
>> I have no problems getting ribbons of 10-30 sections long but the pieces
>> are half the size of the original block. I am guessing they are wrinkling.
>> What am I doing wrong?
>> 
>> Thanks
>> Rachel
>> Senior Scientist....
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